Watch Fish & Men

Fish & Men is a 2019 documentary that uncovers the harsh realities behind our seafood industry, which has been plagued by unsustainable practices and overfishing. The film takes us on a journey along the coast of California, where we meet those who have been impacted by this crisis: fishermen, consumers, chefs, and scientists. Through their stories, we learn about the struggles faced by those who depend on the sea for their livelihoods and why it is essential to protect our oceans for future generations.

The film is directed and narrated by Darby Duffin and Adam Jones, who offer a compelling and personal account of the issues at hand. We see the duo visit various fishing communities, including Morro Bay, Half Moon Bay, and San Francisco, and speak with those on the frontlines of the sustainability movement. The documentary is also accompanied by insights from renowned chef Dan Barber, author Paul Greenberg, oceanographer Sylvia Earle, and others who provide additional context and expertise.

Fish & Men is highly informative and eye-opening, exposing a world that is not widely discussed or understood. We learn about the impact of industrial fishing practices, which can lead to overfishing and damage to marine ecosystems. The film also highlights how large fishing corporations have displaced local fishermen who have been forced to compete with imported seafood from countries that lack regulation and sustainability practices. Through the stories of those who rely on fishing for their income, we are shown the human impact of environmental degradation.

The documentary also examines the role of consumers in this crisis. We see how seafood fraud and mislabeling can lead to the unknowing consumption of unsustainable or even illegal catch. The film also reveals how consumer demand for certain species has led to the depletion of natural stocks and the rise of aquaculture, a controversial practice that can have adverse environmental effects.

Despite the bleak reality presented in Fish & Men, the film offers hope and inspiration for a more sustainable future. We see examples of positive change, such as small-scale fishing cooperatives that prioritize environmental sustainability and transparency. The documentary also highlights the critical work of organizations such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch, which empowers consumers to make informed decisions when purchasing seafood.

Fish & Men is a well-crafted and thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on an urgent environmental and social issue. By humanizing those impacted by this crisis, the film leaves a lasting impression on the viewer and encourages them to question their own consumption choices. This film is essential viewing for anyone interested in environmentalism, sustainability, and the ethics of the food industry.

In conclusion, Fish & Men is a must-see documentary that provides a behind-the-scenes look at the seafood industry and its impact on our oceans and communities. Through engaging storytelling and expert insights, the film raises important questions about sustainability practices and encourages viewers to take action in their own lives.

Fish & Men is a 2021 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.